Absolute Beginner's Guide to the IELTS Test: All You Need to Know to Get You Started

Want to beat English language testing? International English Language Testing System, or IELTS, is your key to international education and migration opportunities. But how and where should I start? This absolute beginner's guide resolves the mystery of the IELTS test and gets you equipped for success.

What is IELTS?

The IELTS is the most popular English proficiency test globally, accepted by over 10,000 institutions across the world. It is designed to test a person in the areas of listening, reading, writing, and speaking so that he or she can effectively communicate in a setting that commands the English language.

Do You Need the IELTS?

International Study: Want to study abroad? Many universities require an IELTS score to check if your English skills are good enough for education.

Want to emigrate to an English-speaking country? Dreams of working overseas? Well, the IELTS is required by many immigration authorities.

There are two types of IELTS:

Academic: This module is intended for people who fit either the undergraduate or postgraduate categories of admission. The test takers' English language skills are tested in an academic, higher education environment.

General Training: It suits those who wish to migrate to, study, or work in an English-speaking country. This test focuses on basic skills and evaluates a person's English in everyday situations and workplace contexts.

Understanding the Test Format:

IELTS four test modules are composed of :

Listening: This test involves listening to recordings from several sources, which take 30 minutes to complete. The recordings are played once, and the questions are based on them.

Reading: This test takes 60 minutes and contains different reading passages. Various question types need to be answered.

Writing: It also takes 60 minutes. It involves writing two essays. This is to reflect your writing excellence besides organizing ideas.

Speaking: It would last about 11-14 minutes. Here, you would face a one-on-one conversation with an examiner, as evidence of your spoken fluency in English.

Getting Started with IELTS Preparation:

Official Resources: Log onto the IELTS and IDP Education websites for further test details, registration details, and sample materials.

Get Familiar with the Band System: IELTS scores are from 1, for a beginner, to 9, for an expert user. Learn more about band descriptors to understand what each score means.

Practice Tests: Tool up your skills with the help of authentic practice materials and online resources that provide sample questions and time tests.

Want to crack the IELTS test with Speakeazy’s specially designed LAP Secrets? Join us and achieve your dream score with us!